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Liberia

Liberia Flood 2024 DREF Operation (MDRLR008)

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What happened, where and when?

Liberia experienced extreme and continuous rainfall between 28 June to 1st of July, leading to flash, coastal, and river basin flooding in Montserrado (Monrovia and adjacent communities), Bong, and Grand Cape Mount Counties. Approximately 75 communities are experiencing flooding in these counties, with Monrovia having the highest affected population. A joint assessment conducted by the NDMA, local community structures, and the Liberian Red Cross Community-Based Action Teams (CBATs) reported that 47 communities in Monrovia have experienced flooding over the last three days. Cape Mount and Bong Counties reported 28 affected communities and villages. The data indicates that about 51,000 persons (10,000 households) were affected, leading to temporary displacement with relatives, in nearby villages, and some public buildings.
In response, the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC) has identified and located eight temporary shelter sites in Monrovia and its environs, while Grand Cape Mount has two public facilities identified for temporary shelters. In Bong County, many affected people are sheltering temporarily with family members in nearby homes. The NDMA has issued warnings on national radio and television about the likelihood of further flooding and displacement over the next four months. Immediate action and support are urgently needed to address the current crisis and prepare for future events.
The Liberia Meteorological Department has predicted continuous rains between May and September 2024 across six counties:
Montserrado, Bomi, Cape Mount, Margibi, Grand Bassa, and Maryland (coastal). The affected populations have lost valuable household items and are exposed to risks of disease outbreaks, loss of habitat (sheltering opportunities), livelihood mechanisms, and water source pollution. About 68% of the affected people are women, children, and other vulnerable groups, including the physically challenged and single mothers, who are seeking shelter in temporary facilities (public and private buildings) and with neighbors and relatives in adjacent unflooded communities.